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Neck disability index insufficient for accurate EQ-5D value prediction
A regression model that uses the Neck Disability Index was found to be an unreliable and inaccurate method for estimating actual EQ-5D values, researchers found.
Neck Disability Index (NDI), neck pain, arm pain and EQ-5D scores were prospectively recorded for 3,732 patients with degenerative cervical spine disorders. Patients’ mean age was 53.3 years.
According to the researchers, the strongest correlation in the study was between EQ-5D and NDI (Pearson = −0.77, Spearman = −0.79). The second strongest correlation was between EQ-5D and neck pain score (Spearman = −0.64). The weakest correlation was between EQ-5D and arm pain score (Spearman = −0.50), but this was still statistically significant.
“The regression model estimating the EQ-5D from the NDI, neck pain score, and arm pain score accounted for 60% of the variability of the EQ-5D with a relatively large RMSE. This regression model may not be sufficient to accurately or reliably estimate actual EQ-5D values. Fortunately, the EQ-5D is easy to administer and score and may not substantially increase respondent burden,” the researchers concluded.
Disclosure: See the study for a full list of all authors’ relevant financial disclosures.
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Carreon LY. J Neurosurg Spine. 2014. doi:10.3171/2014.5.SPINE13570.